Governor Tate Reeves has declared for Spring Severe Weather Preparedness Week to begin in Mississippi on Sunday following the high number of storms last year.
In total, Mississippi had 61 confirmed tornadoes, including one EF-4 and two EF-3 tornadoes that touched down during the severe storms on March 24. The storm system moved through Rolling Fork and Silver City, claiming 22 lives.
“We have seen just how important it is to prepare for severe weather and how having a plan before a disaster can be lifesaving,” Reeves said. “I encourage all Mississippians to review their severe weather preparedness plan, especially as we approach spring.”
At this time, the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency is planning to partner with the National Weather Service to highlight different types of severe weather and ways to be prepared for the upcoming season from February 11-17.
The topics include:
- Sunday – Make a Plan
- Monday – Severe Thunderstorms
- Tuesday – Flash Flooding
- Wednesday – Tornadoes (Statewide Tornado Drill at 9:15 a.m.)
- Thursday – Lightning
- Friday – Alerts and Warnings
- Saturday – Mobile Home Safety
“So many lives were lost last year due to severe weather. All families should have a plan of action when severe weather warnings are issued. It’s important for everyone to have multiple ways to receive alerts and have a pre-identified safe place to go,” MEMA Executive Director Stephen McCraney said. “I encourage all Mississippians to use this week to prepare for the upcoming spring severe weather season.”
